YOBE STATE FARMERS DEMAND ACTION AGAINST HERDER-LED FARM DESTRUCTION 10-11-24
By Sadiq Aminu Residents of eleven communities in Yobe State, facing a persistent issue of herders destroying crops, have urged the state government to engage hunters and vigilante groups to protect their farmlands.
The call follows numerous complaints from farmers, who are increasingly resorting to harvesting unripe crops due to the ongoing conflict.
The problem is widespread, affecting various local government areas including Gulani, Gujba, Tarmuwa, Jakusko, Nangere, Damaturu, Bursari, Fune, Fika, Yunusari, and Karasuwa.
Despite previous efforts by the state government, traditional rulers, and authorities to address the conflict through security deployments and dialogue committees, the menace persists.
Farmers, requesting anonymity, highlighted the effectiveness of hunters and vigilante groups, stating, “The herders are only afraid of the military and the hunters or vigilante groups, and the hunters or vigilante group knew all the nooks and crannies of the community.”
They advocate for the training and deployment of more local security personnel to safeguard their farmlands.
Special Adviser on Security Issues to Governor Mai Mala Buni, Brig. Gen Abdulsalam Dahiru (rtd), acknowledged the issue and confirmed that the state government is actively seeking solutions.
He announced upcoming security meetings with heads of security agencies, council chairmen, the State Council of Chiefs, and all stakeholders.
These meetings will be followed by further engagements involving herder organizations such as Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria, Kulen Allah Cattle Rearers Association of Nigeria, Alhaya, and farmer associations, as well as traditional and religious leaders and security agencies, aiming to find lasting solutions to the farmer-herder conflicts.
The urgency of this issue is underscored by recent events in Yunusari Local Government Area, where three lives were lost due to farmer-herder conflicts, heightening tensions in the community.
The problem of farmer-herder conflicts in Nigeria is a deeply rooted issue with a long history.
Yobe State government’s commitment to finding a lasting solution is crucial to protecting the livelihoods of farmers and promoting peace and stability in the state.